Nathan Good Architects[1]'s Cannon Beach Residence has too many green accolades to mention - in addition to its green roof[2], energy-efficient design, and sustainably sourced materials it's also net-zero[3]. And it has the most spectacular view of the ocean. The stunning home has a number of hand-crafted features and exudes a love of nature, which was one of the owners' main goals. It was also designed for to last for generations to come and it's a showcase for sustainable home construction.

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This open floor plan, 3 bedroom home is situated in Cannon Beach, Oregon and takes advantage of the gorgeous views as well as the surrounding site and sun. The owners asked Nathan Good[1] for a home that would last for generations and that would express their love of nature. Throughout the design process they decided to make it as green as possible. The two-story home makes use of passive solar design to maximize the sun’s energy for heat and daylighting. A highly insulated and tight envelope made from insulating concrete forms[5] (ICFs) serves as the foundation for the home’s energy efficiency strategies.

The home’s heating system takes advantage of solar hot water heaters, geothermal, energy heat recovery ventilators, and a high-efficiency heat pump. A 5.9 kW photovoltaic system[6] on the roof generates enough electricity for the home, while a grid connection allows ut to share electricity back and forth. A green roof planted with sedum, wild strawberry and pennisetum provides additional insulation, rainwater absorption and fire resistance.

The home was also built with sustainable materials including FSC certified wood, reclaimed timbers, fly-ash[7] and other recycled materials. The home actually generates more energy than it uses, and in 2005 Nathan Good was awarded the National Association of Home Builders’ Custom Green Home award. Read more about this beautiful home in an article from Fine Homebuilding Magazine[8].